Tough Luck (A-List Security 1)

“And you?” Duncan pointed at me with his fork. “You’re happy?”

That I didn’t even have to think twice about. “Yeah. I really am.”

“Good. Nice change.” Duncan nodded sharply. Across from us, Danny laughed at something Harley said, and my chest expanded, fingers itching to sweep his hair off his forehead, whole body tuned to Danny even from this distance.

“I’m not sure I’ve changed.” My mouth twisted as I considered the prospect. I didn’t feel changed like I’d turned into something I hadn’t been previously or like I was playing at some new version of myself. I made a vague gesture as I fumbled for words. “More like I’m more myself now than some different person.”

“Guess that makes sense.” Duncan stared off into the distance before turning toward the table where Linus was weaving his way between ankles on his way back to Danny’s lap. “Dog was a nice gift. Probably earned you boyfriend of the year status.”

“Hey, as long as he keeps me around.” I would do whatever it took to convince Duncan I was in this for good. I wasn’t out to break Danny’s heart or lose Duncan’s trust.

“Oh, I don’t think there’s any risk of that.” Shaking his head, Duncan smiled as Danny made his way over to us, dog tucked under one arm. Gloria and her husband joined the teens in the pool while Harley was busy going back for more food.

“Hey. Thanks for the food,” Danny said, stopping in front of Duncan’s chair. “You remembered I like tacos.”

“I remember. Surprised the dog didn’t eat yours.”

“He’s been very good.” Danny gave the dog a loving pat even as Linus eyed Duncan suspiciously.

“If you say so.” Duncan moved like he might try to pet Linus, but then the dog growled softly, and he returned his hand to his side. “Jase said your pictures of all the dogs were great.”

“He said that?” Danny preened, chest lifting and eyes shining.

“Yup,” I agreed. Danny’s casual snaps had made even the homeliest creatures like Linus look ready to be superstar companions. “Your pictures are going to help tons of pups find homes. Jase wanted to know if you want to take more pictures of some of the other foster dogs from the rescue.”

“I could do that.” Danny nodded eagerly, then narrowed his eyes. “I’ve been thinking. I might take some actual photography classes. I’m not sure. It’s not like I have a lot of experience with real school.”

“You’ll do great.” Standing, Duncan clapped him on the shoulder. “And trust me, real school isn’t all that either. I know it’s not the same thing as what you went through, but there were plenty of times I fucking hated boarding school.”

It was one of the rare times I’d heard Duncan say anything negative about the prestigious military high school he’d been sent to by their famous father, and Danny too seemed to get that this sharing didn’t come easily to Duncan because he returned Duncan’s pat on the arm.

“Guess we all had it rough in our own ways.” Danny’s face softened like he was ready to hear more, but Duncan merely nodded curtly.

“Yup.” A muscle worked in his jaw and his shoulders were naval inspection tense before he exhaled hard. “And maybe I suck at saying it, but I’m proud of you.”

Danny glowed like the Hollywood sign at night, whole face lighting up. He’d certainly waited long enough for that praise. “I’m proud of me too. And of you. What you’re trying to do with your company is pretty cool.”

“It would be cooler if Money let me find him an assignment.” Duncan gave me a pointed look.

This was the opening I’d been waiting for all evening, but it still wasn’t easy to reach for it. I far preferred going my own way on things, but I’d sure lectured Danny enough on people being stronger as a team. Time to actually admit that. “Maybe. But I don’t want to work personal security. Figure I’m a one-person bodyguard.”

“Good,” Danny interrupted me, nodding up and down.

“You’re cute jealous.” Duncan shook his head.

“But I do want a job.” There I’d said it. My savings wouldn’t last forever, and if I wanted a future with Danny, I needed to see to my own as well. “Maybe something like Harley’s deal on a set? Eventually, I like the idea of consulting on stunts, but I figure I need connections first.”

“I’ve got connections.” Duncan grinned, likely because he knew he had me.

“You do.” I met his gaze coolly. No need to further pump his ego.

“And a desire to see my brother’s boyfriend gainfully employed. Let me ask around?”

“Yeah,” I agreed right as Harley joined us with his plate of food.

“Hey, all you got to do to find him work is show them footage of Money tackling Danny’s stalker,” Harley said to Duncan.